ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF10.20

F10.20

Billable

Alcohol dependence, uncomplicated

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 F10.20 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of alcohol dependence, uncomplicated.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Alcohol dependence, uncomplicated, is characterized by a strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, and the development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. This condition is classified under substance use disorders and is marked by a compulsive pattern of alcohol use despite negative consequences. Patients may experience physical and psychological dependence, leading to significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Unlike alcohol use disorder with complications, uncomplicated alcohol dependence does not involve severe withdrawal symptoms or medical complications such as liver disease or alcohol-related accidents. Treatment typically involves behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups, with the potential for pharmacotherapy to assist in managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for appropriate treatment planning and insurance reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between uncomplicated and complicated alcohol dependence.
  • Understanding the nuances of withdrawal symptoms and their severity.
  • Identifying co-occurring mental health disorders.
  • Documenting the patient's history of alcohol use and treatment.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of alcohol use history.
  • Failure to document treatment plans and follow-up.
  • Misclassification of alcohol dependence severity.
  • Lack of evidence for behavioral therapy or counseling.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Addiction Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of substance use history, treatment plans, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients seeking help for alcohol dependence, undergoing detoxification, or participating in rehabilitation programs.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the patient's engagement in treatment and any co-occurring disorders.

Psychiatry

Documentation Requirements

Detailed mental health evaluations, including assessments of mood, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with alcohol dependence presenting with anxiety or depression.

Billing Considerations

Document any psychiatric evaluations and treatment plans that address both alcohol dependence and mental health issues.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F10.20 When
  • Follow the ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding substance use disorders
  • 20 should be used when the patient meets the criteria for alcohol dependence without complications
  • Ensure to document the absence of withdrawal symptoms or other complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F10.20 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99406CPT Code

Smoking and tobacco use cessation counseling visit.

Clinical Scenario

Used when counseling for alcohol dependence is provided in conjunction with smoking cessation.

Documentation Requirements

Document the counseling session details and patient engagement.

Specialty Considerations

Addiction specialists may need to coordinate care with smoking cessation programs.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of alcohol dependence, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and healthcare utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of alcohol dependence, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and healthcare utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of alcohol dependence, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and healthcare utilization.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between alcohol dependence and alcohol abuse?

Alcohol dependence involves a physical and psychological reliance on alcohol, characterized by tolerance and withdrawal symptoms, while alcohol abuse refers to a pattern of drinking that leads to significant impairment or distress without the physical dependence criteria.